LOCHAY Homes has started groundworks on its latest residential development near Penicuik, Midlothian.
The project, set within 6.39 acres of the former Wellington School site, has planning consent for 46 two to four-bedroom bungalows and is expected to see its first completions next summer.
Offering low-density housing and surrounded by mature woodland, the single-storey homes are described as being planned with modern energy-saving features and designed to reduce household running costs.
With bungalows representing just 1% of current UK housing stock, the development is tipped to attract strong interest, particularly amongst downsizers.
Jamie Thomson, commercial director at Lochay Homes, said, “It’s fantastic to see work starting on this exciting development in such a desirable location. It is our hope that these stylish new homes will not only deliver genuinely lower energy bills but also provide the flexibility and accessibility buyers are looking for – whether downsizers or growing families. We have only just started on groundworks and have already had enquiries, so we do expect this to be popular development.”
Lochay Homes is planning to incorporate heat pumps, solar panelling, home batteries systems, high levels of insulation, and EV charging. The developer added that it will use local materials wherever possible, with timber frame construction and natural stone detailing to reflect the local vernacular.
The site will also include new planting, with more than 1,000 additional trees to be introduced, alongside orchard areas with apple and plum trees, native hedgerows, shrubs, and woodland mix.
Work on the access to the site has now begun, with full construction due to start in the new year following detailed planning approval for updated house types. Finalised designs and details on pricing are expected to be confirmed in early 2026.
